Interior Illusions for Small Spaces
At some point in our lives we will all be relegated to living in tiny apartments. That’s whether the post-college starting salary leaves a lot to be desired, or you’re sick of living with roommates but your budget doesn’t stretch far enough for your own space. You’ll simply have to compromise on space. When the walls are closing in and furniture and clutter is obstructing everything, you might feel as if taking a couple of chainsaws to some of it is the answer. That or jumping online and ordering every power tool you can find from Tesco or your local DIY store in some sort of DIY frenzy. Fear not, however, there are many easier options to give the illusion of space, before you start ripping walls down and lose your deposit in the process.
Take some time to reflect
Frustratingly, lots of landlords won’t let you redecorate, so if you can’t brighten up a room with a lick of paint then mirrors are a cheap, easy way to generate a sensation of more light and space in a room. Paint and wallpaper can absorb light whereas mirrors reflect it, so get strategic with your placing to lighten up even the darkest of rooms. Glass furniture is another way to convey an impression of greater of space. Invest in a glass coffee table for the living room, it will seem like it takes up no space at all and creates a stylish, minimalist look.
Keep your head up
When decorating any small space it pays to think vertically, hang shelves and art work as high up as you can. Not only will shelves reduce the need for bulky items of furniture like bookcases, freeing up floor space. Placing shelves high up also draws the eye upwards, making the room feel more spacious.
Big is beautiful
It’s a common misconception that a small room requires small furniture. Small furniture can actually make a room seem more crowded and cluttered. The room will seem bigger if you invest in one large piece or furniture, like a sofa. Also avoid pushing furniture up against the wall, leaving gaps of a couple of inches will stop the room feeling so cramped. Similarly picking furniture with legs stops everything feeling so boxy.
Coordination is key
Sticking to one neutral color scheme unifies a room, and keeps everything looking very streamlined and chic. Walls, furniture, and even color coordinating your accessories and books makes everything blend in and expands the feeling of space. Shades of cream, blues and grays are all good options for creating an airy feel.
By following these few simple steps even the smallest apartment will seem light and airy, while still keeping all your walls (and your deposit) intact.
Disclosure: This is an editorial post, share that feeling with the world.
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